Boomer Sooner Paddles?

[jackie seven]

Watching the Texas Tech-Oklahoma game last night, I noticed some the the Oklahoma cheerleaders were brandishing sorority type paddles decorated with the school colors. I had noticed these a time or two before, especially when they come out on the field in that little covered wagon, and had always meant to do some research as to the significance of them.

All I could find was that the paddles were a tradition that began in the 20s. It said they were used to intimidate the opposing team's fans and inspire their own fans to cheer louder. I couldn't help but wonder if they'd ever actually been used, perhaps on the spandex clad bottoms of those gorgeous cheerleaders? (Well, you can't blame a guy for dreaming!)

Is anybody here from Oklahoma that might know more about this tradition or if these paddles have ever been put to actual use?